Valentine’s Day is all about celebrating the ones we love—and for many of us, that includes the furry, four‑legged companions who fill our homes with joy. I wanted to make something special for my snow dogs, so I experimented with homemade beet treats shaped like hearts and bones. They had never tried beets before, so I wasn’t sure what to expect, but they absolutely loved them. Even better, the treats baked up crunchy, which is exactly how my pups prefer their snacks.
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Koda loves all the beet treats ♥
Before diving into the recipe, a quick word of caution: beets stain. My hands were pink for a bit, so wearing gloves is a smart move unless you’re ready to embrace the color. I also let the dogs enjoy their treats on the wood floor instead of the carpet—just in case.
Why Beets Make a Thoughtful Treat
Beets aren’t just pretty—they’re packed with nutrients that can support your dog’s overall wellness when used in moderation. They’re naturally rich in fiber, which helps keep digestion steady. For dogs who enjoy crunchy treats, that extra fiber can be a gentle way to support healthy bowel movements.
Beets also contain vitamin C, vitamin B9 (folate), manganese, and potassium. These nutrients play roles in immune function, cell repair, and maintaining healthy muscles and nerves. For active pups, those minerals help keep their bodies balanced and energized.
Another benefit comes from the antioxidants and betalains found in beets. These natural compounds help reduce oxidative stress and support long‑term health. Betalains also give beets their vibrant red color, which means you get beautiful Valentine’s Day hues without artificial dyes.
Fresh beets are always the better choice for dogs. Canned beets often contain added salt, and too much sodium isn’t good for pets. Fresh keeps things simple, wholesome, and safe.
A Gentle Reminder: Know Your Dog
Every dog is different. Some have sensitive stomachs, allergies, or dietary restrictions. Even natural ingredients can cause issues for certain pups. Before introducing new foods—especially homemade treats—it’s always wise to check with your veterinarian. They can help you understand what’s appropriate for your dog’s age, size, and health needs.
Natural Coloring Ideas
One of my favorite parts of making homemade treats is experimenting with natural colors:
Red/Pink: Beetroot, strawberry, raspberry
Orange: Turmeric, pumpkin, carrot, sweet potato
Yellow: Egg yolk, turmeric
Green: Wheatgrass, kale, spirulina
Purple: Blueberry, blackberry
Brown: Carob, molasses, peanut butter
With treats baked and hearts full, it’s time for doggie date night. Homemade love tastes pretty sweet.
Peel and chop the beet into small pieces. Fresh is best to avoid added salt.
Boil the beet pieces in 1–2 cups of water for about 15 minutes, until soft.
Remove the beets but save the water. Pulse the cooked pieces in a food processor until they resemble cauliflower rice.
Mix the oat and coconut flour. Add 1/4 cup of the processed beet and about 1/2 cup of the beet water for color.
Knead until a dough forms.
Roll the dough to 1/4 inch between parchment sheets and cut into shapes.
Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes. Store in the fridge or freezer.
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Dog Mom, traveler, foodie and canine crafter. Kimberly is dedicated to enriching the lives of all dogs. She is inspired by her Two Idiot Balls of Fluff, two snow dogs, Bear and Koda, Kimberly is passionate about sharing with you all the things she learned raising her fur babies.
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